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How Computers Use Their Memory

📑 10 slides 👁 37 views 📅 1/21/2026
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Introduction to Computer Memory

Computer memory stores data and instructions for processing.

Introduction to Computer Memory
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RAM: The Temporary Workspace

  • RAM (Random Access Memory) holds active programs and data.
  • Volatile memory - loses data when power is turned off.
  • Typical modern computers have 8GB to 64GB of RAM.
RAM: The Temporary Workspace
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Storage: Long-Term Memory

  • HDDs and SSDs store data permanently even when powered off.
  • SSDs are 5-10x faster than HDDs but more expensive per GB.
  • Average laptops today have 256GB to 2TB of storage.
Storage: Long-Term Memory
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How CPU Uses Memory

  • CPU fetches instructions and data from memory to execute tasks.
  • Cache memory (L1-L3) provides ultra-fast access to frequent data.
  • Memory hierarchy balances speed, size and cost efficiently.
How CPU Uses Memory
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Memory Addressing Explained

  • Each memory location has a unique address like a street address.
  • 64-bit systems can address up to 16 exabytes of memory.
  • Memory controllers manage data flow between CPU and RAM.
Memory Addressing Explained
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Virtual Memory System

  • Uses hard disk space when physical RAM is full (page file).
  • Slower than RAM but prevents out-of-memory crashes.
  • Windows typically allocates 1.5x physical RAM as virtual memory.
Virtual Memory System
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Memory in Modern Devices

  • Smartphones use LPDDR RAM optimized for power efficiency.
  • GPUs have dedicated VRAM (4-24GB in gaming cards).
  • Cloud computing relies on massive server memory pools.
Memory in Modern Devices
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Memory Management by OS

  • Operating systems allocate and protect memory for applications.
  • Memory leaks occur when programs don't release unused memory.
  • Task Manager/Activity Monitor show real-time memory usage.
Memory Management by OS
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Future Memory Technologies

  • DDR5 RAM offers double bandwidth of DDR4 (up to 6.4Gbps).
  • 3D XPoint/Optane promises RAM-like speed with persistence.
  • Quantum memory could revolutionize future computing.
Future Memory Technologies
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Conclusion & Key Takeaways

  • Memory is crucial bridge between storage and processing.
  • Different memory types serve specific purposes in hierarchy.
  • Advancements continue to improve speed, capacity and efficiency.
Conclusion & Key Takeaways
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